Driving Time between Blaine, Minnesota and Forest Lake, Minnesota

A picture depicting driving

A Scenic Road Trip from Blaine to Forest Lake: Your Ultimate Guide to Travel Time

Are you craving an adventurous road trip that takes you from suburban Blaine, Minnesota to the serene beauty of Forest Lake? You're in luck! We've got you covered with different routes that showcase the area's natural beauty along with the quickest driving times.

Options for Routes

Before we dive into the details, let's consider the options for routes. There are two main routes to take from Blaine to Forest Lake, which are:

  • I-35W North and MN-97 East
  • MN-65 North and MN-97 West

Both routes will take you roughly 20 - 30 minutes depending on traffic, but the scenery differs. While the I-35W route is a quicker route, taking the MN-65 route will give you the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the cities and travel through rural farmland.

The I-35W Route

The most convenient route would be taking I-35W north and then head east onto MN-97 towards Forest Lake. This route from Blaine to Forest Lake is just under 20 miles with a quick driving time of just 25 minutes with the occasional chance to spot deer, foxes, and other wildlife if you're lucky. Along the way, you can stop by the Rosedale Shopping Center to do some shopping, make a detour to the Springbrook Nature Center in Fridley, or grab a bite at any of the numerous restaurants in Lino Lakes.

The MN-65 Route

If you're looking for a slow and scenic drive, then the MN-65 route is the way to go. This route goes through hamlets, vibrant farmland and parallel to the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park Reserve. The 25-mile journey from Blaine to Forest Lake will take just under 30 minutes. Along the way, check out the quaint town of Bethel, which marks the halfway point between the two destinations. It's a charming town with an iconic water tower that's perfect for memorable photographs. Don't forget to stop for lunch at JJ's Bowl & Lounge on the side of the road toward Forest Lake.

Other Attractions along the Way

Along with the scenic routes, you can choose different stops.

  • The Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area near the intersection of County Road 14 and MN-65 is home to a wide variety of native wildlife.
  • Discover local breweries and vineyards like the Victoria Burrow and St. Croix Vineyards, where you can taste delicious wines.
  • Hit the beaches at the Forest Lake for fishing, boating, or swimming.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you prefer a quick and easy route or a scenic drive, you can't go wrong with a trip from Blaine to Forest Lake. With so much to see and do along the way, it's the perfect opportunity to indulge in nature, food, and cultures. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today and have fun while driving!